A Very Unusual Change Could be Coming to Second Cup Locations in Halton

Second Cup is something of a Canadian success story—or at least a story about innovation.

You might recall that back in 2016, the company announced that it was "reviewing its strategic options" after being plagued by declining sales. Now, the recovering brand is fighting for its rightful place in consumer consciousness by emphasizing its partnerships with Pinkberry, UberEats and Skip the Dishes and fulfilling an earlier promise to convert some stores into cannabis dispensaries.

Second Cup recently announced that it's embarking on a joint venture with National Access Cannabis Corp. and planning to convert two Alberta locations to recreational cannabis dispensaries.

It also said it's "examining multiple potential opportunities in Ontario."

“I am pleased with our continued improvement in profitability and same store sales results this quarter," Garry Macdonald, Second Cup president &CEO, said in a news release outlining the company's financial state.

"Innovations such as Pinkberry, UberEats and Skip The Dishes delivery services are helping to drive incremental sales. Additionally, we continue to focus on providing our customers with a best-in-class customer experience.”

Offering cannabis and froyo all in one place? That’s great customer service indeed.

The cannabis news isn't new.

As you might recall, NAC and Second Cup announced their partnership in April 2018.

Now, the two companies say they plan to develop a network of NAC-branded (it will be called Meta) and operated recreational cannabis stores in provinces where cannabis is legal.

Cannabis was officially legalized throughout Canada on Oct. 17.

"Two conversions are underway in Alberta. While the guidelines are not yet finalized, many more locations in Ontario have been identified as attractive candidates for conversion to cannabis dispensaries," Second Cup said in a news release.

Oakville, Burlington, Milton and Halton Hills residents should note, however, that they will not be able to legally purchase cannabis from any brick and mortar establishment until spring 2019.